The Truth Behind the Myths, Misconceptions, and Missing Pieces of Prehistoric Life

A Conversation on Fossils, Evolution, and the Science That Keeps Rewriting the Past

Join a paleontologist for Everything You Learned About Dinosaurs Is Wrong, an engaging exploration of how groundbreaking discoveries have transformed our understanding of the prehistoric world. Drawing on years of experience studying fossils and bringing dinosaurs to life for audiences, this conversation will uncover how science has reshaped the creatures we thought we knew from feathered dinosaurs and warm-blooded giants to the surprising connection between dinosaurs and modern birds.

Together, we’ll explore the great dinosaur rethink and the discoveries that overturned decades of assumptions. We’ll dive into how fossils revealed that many dinosaurs were faster, more dynamic, and more complex than the slow, scaly reptiles portrayed in childhood textbooks and movies. Along the way, we’ll examine how scientists use evidence to reconstruct ancient life, why new discoveries can challenge long-held beliefs, and how the scientific process evolves as we uncover more of Earth’s history.

This is not just a conversation about dinosaurs - it’s a fascinating look at how science works, how curiosity drives discovery, and why changing our minds in the face of new evidence is one of the most powerful parts of learning. With real fossils and specimens to explore, Jurassic James will bring prehistoric life into the present and show that the story of dinosaurs is still being written. No paleontology degree required - just bring your inner seven-year-old.

Don't miss this chance to connect with your After5Society.

About the Speaker:

James Edward Washington III - better known as Jurassic James® - is a proud native Houstonian who's been obsessed with dinosaurs since childhood (he earned the nickname back in high school and never looked back). He spent a decade at the Houston Museum of Natural Science as a lead tour guide and educator, and has built a personal collection of some 10,000 fossils and specimens. He's dug in the field alongside legends of the science, including Dr. Robert Bakker - the paleontologist who helped overturn everything we thought we knew about dinosaurs - and Peter Larson of Dinosaur 13 fame. What sets Jurassic James apart is pure, infectious enthusiasm paired with the real thing: actual specimens in hand, and a gift for making Earth's deep history come alive for an audience of any age.

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A roughly 25-30 minute talk, followed by audience Q&A and mingling
Real fossils and specimens on hand, straight from Jurassic James's own collection
Location: Patterson Park Patio Bar, 2205 Patterson St, Houston
Drinks available at the bar - come thirsty for both
No science background needed; bring your questions (and your inner kid)

Sip, think, and connect.